I have been attending these concerts now for several years but never have I enjoyed the afternoon so much. For one thing the choir was on top form; that cannot be denied. The soothing sounds filled the church; which was filled to capacity and the mulled wine and mince pies which followed was a great idea. It created a very special atmosphere for the village.

The music was well planned so that we had one section of choir favourites and two sections of seasonal songs. What struck me first of all was the contrasts that were achieved in the choice of music. We had Welsh carols alongside, spirituals, followed by a medieval carol and a Polish carol. The programme had been really well worked out.

"Autumn Leaves" was a beautiful opening song, as we saw autumn turning into winter, but my favourite of all in the first section was "Water of Tyne", a love song with a difference with some very special surging sounds depicting the waves. The section was rounded of with a very lively rendition of "Rhythm of Life". Brilliant.

I am not sure which of the Christmas music I would choose as my favourite. "Te Laudamus" must have the top position in the end, but "Do You Hear What I hear" had a haunting quality which stays with one and Gaudete, with the fine soloists contrasted well to the images of the "Winter "Wonderland " which followed.

The announcer David Wood entertained with his dry humour throughout and I was pleased that he gave praise to Lorraine Gash who accompanied with her great talent. In every way, I think that the choir under the direction of talented musical director Michael Deakin were seen, (and heard) at their best.

Derek Smith

Dalston Male Voice Choir sang their hearts out at the Christmas Concert held in St Andrew’s Church, Penrith under the musical direction of Michael Deakin. The Concert was organised by Hospice at Home Carlisle and North Lakeland to raise vital funds to enable them to provide palliative care in North Cumbria. The Charity which was formed in 1997 is delighted to be celebrating 20 years of service.

The choir commenced its performance with an arrangement by Emrys Williams of ‘Autumn Leaves’ and they continued the evening with songs such as ‘Water of Tyne’, Charles Aznavour’s ‘She’ and an arrangement by R Barnes of ‘Rhythm of Life’. This ended the first session of the choir’s magnificent music.

The choir supports young talent and this evening we were entertained by a young soloist, student Kasia Davies ARSM who attends the Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Penrith, and is currently in her final year of A-Levels. Kasia has been playing the violin for 9 years and enjoys taking part in musical activities both in and out of school. Kasia delighted the people present playing the first movement of Mozart’s ‘Coin’.

After Kasia’s performance, the choir resumed their performance with ‘Let it Snow’, ‘Te Laudomus’, ‘Suo Gan’ and ‘Do you Hear What I Hear?’ which led to Kasia’s second appearance playing pieces by Brahms, Bach and Sarasate. Kasia is undoubtedly a talented young violinist who obviously enjoys the whole experience playing with feeling and passion.

The Dalston Male Voice Choir then commenced their third and final session with a medieval carol ‘Gaudete’ followed by ‘Infant Holy’, ‘Oh Mary. Where is your Baby?’ and finally ‘Winter Wonderland’. This was a fitting finale to an evening of music and song on a cold winter’s night but the warmth and ambiance of St Andrew’s Church made up for the chill outside.

The accompanists playing the piano were Lorraine Gash for the Choir and Daniel Roberts for Kasia Davies both of whom enhanced the whole experience of a wonderful evening’s entertainment.

Julie Blundell, Fundraising and Marketing Manager said “We are absolutely thrilled to once again receive support from our friends from the Dalston Male Voice Choir - Hospice at Home are very fortunate to receive continuous commitment from the Choir on a regular basis”. Julie added “I was fortunate to be at the Concert and had a thoroughly enjoyable occasion, the performances were truly magnificent with a variety of songs presented, the event was magical and a wonderful start to the festive season. The funds raised will provide many hours of nursing care for local patients and families in the north and east of Cumbria. Thank you to all who took part and to the Penrith Area Volunteer Group for their generosity in organising this fundraising occasion!”

The concert was kindly sponsored by Trade Copiers, Penrith

Following last year’s concert from Dalston’s Ladies Choir, Irthington was the willing host for a return concert, this time from the locally renowned Male Voice Choir under the musical direction of Michael Deakin. The concert provided a warm mix of well-known standards, traditional, classical and modern that perfectly matched the beautiful church setting.

The evening began with an arrangement of Irving Berlin’s “Let’s Face the Music”, one of two pieces sung without music, followed by the lilting “Slow Train” by Flanders and Swann which hinted of a bygone age of travel. The traditional north eastern tune “Water of Tyne” brought the first chance for the choir to reveal the depth and strength of talent across the sections before an emotive version of “Nessun Dorma” gave way to the first of two sections from young soloist Allisa Moore. Allisa’s performance showed an unexpected strength and range with a mix of traditional works and Disney songs. Clearly one to watch.

The choirs second set included a jazz gospel version of “Where could I go but to the Lord” showing the musical range of the choir but it was their version of Charles Aznavour’s “She” that proved the highlight of the night. The choir showed excellent balance with complicated harmonies across the section with a confident and believable delivery.

Later pieces included Welsh choir standards, beautifully and accurately sung in Welsh. These were brave choices which can show the strength in a choir, but also show any weaknesses. The Dalston choir proved that they had none. Note must be given to the deft comparing of choir member Dave Woods and the excellent accompanying of Lorraine Gash whose playing showed the choir to their best.

The opening song of Dalston and Chepstow Male Voice Choirs combined concert was ‘There could be Trouble Ahead’: nothing could have been further from the truth, because the audience at Wigton Road Methodist Church was treated to a feast of splendid music-making, under the expert batons of Michael Deakin and Richard Fry.

Both choirs produced flowing legato phrases, facilitated by exemplary breath-control; had excellent diction and employed a broad range of dynamics. With not a sheet of music in sight, concentration was focused and the resulting attention to detail was impressive.

Dalston’s assured, rousing opener displayed rhythmic vitality and a pleasing blend of voices. This was followed by two gentler contrasts: a humour-tinged trip down memory lane with Flanders and Swann’s ‘Slow Train’ and the traditional ‘Water of Tyne’ which created an appropriate dreamy, melancholic mood. In ‘Nessun Dorma’ we heard a warm, choral sound filled with lush harmonies. Chepstow opened their programme with a Welsh hymn, ‘Diolch I’r Lor’ in which voice-parts were carefully balanced and harmonies tight. Polished performances from two musicals, ‘Memory ‘ from Cats and ‘This is the Moment’ from Jekyll and Hyde, were followed by a moving performance of Goodall’s ‘The Lord is my Shepherd’.

In a passionate, confident rendition of ‘Comrades in Arms’ by Adolphe Adam, there were well-articulated legato and staccato passages and a wealth of dynamic intensity and clearly contrasted moods. Throughout the well-coordinated afternoon Lorraine Gash, Rosemarie Lewis and Kirsten Watson accompanied with great sensitivity. Young pianist Calum Taylor played a varied selection of pieces, from Chopin to Satié. In Scott Joplin’s ‘The Cascades’ he seemed to find his niche: he captured the rag-time style very well with a strong, steady, rhythmic pulse.

The pieces sung by the combined choirs - ‘Gwahodiadd’, ‘Cwm Rhonda’, ‘Love can I only tell Thee’ and ‘Rhythm of Life’ - were totally uplifting; a powerful, full-bodied, energised and well- balanced choral sound that delighted the audience. When can we have some more?

Avril Tisdall

There was an excellent turn-out for Dalston Male Voice Choir’s annual summer concert in St. Michael’s Church, Dalston. The audience was treated to some fine choral singing under the assured baton of musical director, Michael Deakin and first-rate accompaniments from Lorraine Gash.

Some old favourites (notably ‘I’m Gonna Walk’, ‘The Rose’, Speed Your Journey’, and ‘Softly as I Leave You’) scattered throughout a varied programme were sung with customary aplomb: but regardless of genre the harmonies were tight and well-balanced, the dynamic range suitably broad and diction extremely clear. The choir’s reputation for producing flowing legato lines which show off their excellent breath control remains untarnished!

The guest soloist was Alissa Moore, a promising young singer. Ably accompanied by Michael Deakin, she sang two Alexander L’Estrange songs, later followed by three songs from the musicals. Alissa has a very clear, well-focused voice, with a particularly delightful quality in the upper register. Her final piece was ‘Fly Me to the Moon’, and here we saw a blossoming ability to engage with her audience.

David Wood, as announcer, provided succinct guidance throughout an evening which appropriately began with ‘It’s a Grand Night for Singing’. In the first half we heard two Welsh hymns, ‘O Jesu Mawr’ and ‘Gwahoddiad’, sung a cappella. These were pitch-perfect and very moving - even if we did not understand the Welsh words!

Careful articulation was a strong feature in the rhythmic interpretations of ‘Give me that Old Time Religion’, ‘Stout-Hearted Men’ and ‘Rhythm of Life’. In the latter, the choir’s confident performance made this tricky piece sound almost simple. In contrast to the livelier pieces the choir showed themselves to be adept at capturing the essence of more gentle ones, such as ‘Be Still my Soul’, ‘Water of Tyne' and ‘She’. The mellifluous tone produced in ‘Lily of theValley’ totally enchanted the audience.

An excellent evening’s entertainment drew to a close with a tenderly-sung encore, ‘Softly as I Leave You’. We were certainly all left wanting more.

Avril Tisdall

On a lovely summer’s evening, with the sun streaming into the beautiful backdrop that was St. John The Baptist Church, Upperby, Dalston Male Voice Choir opened their concert with “It’s a Grand Night for Singing”. This upbeat Rogers and Hammerstein number set the tone for a thoroughly enjoyable evening of music.

This was one of a number of songs from shows or films. There was a lovely rendition of “The Rose” from the film of the same name and made famous by Bette Midler. I suspect this is one of the choir’s favourite songs as there was a warmth in the performance and the dynamics of the piece were excellently highlighted by Musical Director, Michael Deakin. The Charles Aznavour song “She” was beautifully sung and the piece revealed a lovely tenor voice.

The programme also included some male voice choir staples. One of these was “Gwahoddiad”. A complete contrast to the opening number, this was a stirring interpretation, revealing the strengths of the various sectors of the choir, the Bass singers in particular. Before singing this hymn, the choir invited some members of Carlisle Veterans Male Voice Choir, present in the audience, to join them on stage. The surprised members discovered a further revelation- it was to be sung in Welsh!

Another hymn followed “ Be Still My Soul”. This was a beautiful performance. It was the epitome of the male voice genre, sung ‘ a capella’ or ‘ unaccompanied’ and it demonstrated the pure essence of this choir. It was perhaps my favourite piece of the evening.The final song of the first section, however, really brought the talents of the accompanist, Lorraine Gash to the fore, as she and the choir took on the challenge of “Give Me The Old Time Religion” with its difficult phrasing and syncopation.

A completely different tone was then offered by the young soloist, Heather Cartwright, on guitar. Heather enchanted the audience with a lyrical interpretation of “ The Coast Road” by Stuart Ryan, followed by the interestingly named “The Impending Death Of The Virgin Spirit” by William Ackerman.

The choir really had the audience tapping their toes and slapping their knees to the lively tune “Stout- Hearted Men” whereas in complete contrast a lilting folk song “Water Of Tyne” demonstrated a more restrained and quiet approach.

As the informative MC, David Wood, outlined the songs to come ,first up in the second half was “I’m Gonna Walk” a gospel song which had earned the choir 3rd place in Carlisle and District Music Festival. The choir sang confidently and with obvious enjoyment. The second soloist of the evening was William Nixon. He gave very accomplished performances on the piano of “Beethoven’s Piano Sonata No. 8”, which elicited extended applause from the audience, and “Nocturne from Midsummer night’s Dream” by Mendelssohn. Again the audience demonstrated their appreciation of this young man’s talent.

Heather finished the solo performances with an extremely challenging arrangement of Bach’s “Prelude in G” ‘with a twist! Heather was very brave to perform such a challenging piece. It was the second time these talented young musicians had appeared with DMVC. It is gratifying to see young talent alongside experience and it is a situation which benefits both parties.

And so to the penultimate number - an amusing arrangement of a nursery rhyme “Old MacDonald’s Farm” which had the audience laughing out loud. A memorable climax to the concert was Verdi’s “Speed Your Journey” or “Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves”. A deep, harmonious sound was achieved by the choir and was a fitting end to an interesting and varied concert.

An encore piece “Softly” was obviously an old favourite of the choir as they sang it confidently, without referring to words and looking straight at the conductor. And so ended ‘a grand night’ in every sense of the word. We had been witness to a challenging, varied and exciting programme with something to suit all tastes. The choir sang with pleasure and obviously enjoyed what they did.

We had been privy to the burgeoning talent of two young instrumentalists. So as we stepped out into the still warm summer evening we all had a song in our heart, albeit a different one from our neighbours. We felt in a better mood - for that’s what music can do for you. So thank you Dalston Male Voice Choir for sharing your obvious love of the music with us.

Rita Yeowart.

Last Saturday evening the 6th May, it was my particular pleasure – along with almost 200 other patrons, to go along to witness 26 very brave “Stout-Hearted Men” and 3 Lovely ladies who had overcome their fear and braved the experience to venture into the “Bullring” of Hopes auction mart in Wigton – fortunately NOT to be auctioned off thank goodness, but to provide a very enthusiastic – and delighted to say – capacity audience, which, on this special occasion included the Provincial Grand Master of Cumberland and Westmorland Freemasons, Right Worshipful Provincial Grand Master, Bro.

Norman James Thompson and his wife Janet into this unusual setting, with a most entertaining and well- chosen programme of both Classical and light Operatic music to suit everyones tastes. These 26 men, resplendent in their Red Blazers, were the 25 members of the Dalston Male Voice Choir and their Conductor, Mr Michael Deakin,(in Black). The Three ladies were :- the Choir accompanist Lorraine Gash, Guest Soprano Soloist Michelle Dodds and her accompanist Ruth Wright.

The Choir were introduced to the audience by compere David Wood and they opened the concert with Rogers & Hammersteins very lively number “It’s a Grand night for singing” which had the audience tapping their feet straight away. In contrast, two quieter numbers followed and the choir finished their first session with “Give me that old time religion” after which the choir received a loud applause.

The beautiful Soprano soloist Michelle Dodds was then introduced and her first song Ave Maria really showed off the beautiful tonal quality and expression in her voice. Her next song “Vittoria, Vittoria,”was sung in a total but joyful character, and her last song was another favourite “Under the Greenwood Tree” after which there was much applause.!!

On resuming the stage again, the beautiful New Moon outside really did shine down on their next three numbers:- the Stout Hearted Men. Lilly of the Valley, The Rose, and Sloop which really did bring the colour and expression out of the music and for which the way the Conductor Mr Michael Deakin had interpretated the story of the pieces for which both Conductor and choir alike received applause.!

On resuming the stage for her final numbers, Michelle Dodds chose “I could have danced all night” from My Fair Lady, “Only Love”, and her final number “Both sides Now” ended a wonderful evening for her for which she was loudly applauded. A very special applause was given to her accompanist Ruth Wright.

Mr Raymond Fearon, the Male Voice Choir Chairman, and also the Worshipful Master of Wigton St.Mary Lodge, who, along with members of the Lodge had helped to organise this very successful event, was called to say a few words of thanks to everyone who had helped in any way to make the evening such a success particularly the artistes who had performed this evening, Michelle Dodds, Ruth Wright her accompanist, and a special mention to Lorraine Gash the resident Choir accompanist for her contribution, not only tonight, but all the year round in rehearsals. He went on to present gifts of flowers to the artistes – and a bottle to the Conductor.

Artistes and audience alike retired to The “Stocksman”Bar where excellent refreshments were served and raffle executed and at around 9-25pm, The Male Voice Choir Re-assembled and finished the lovely night off with three short items:-Speed your Journey, Old MacDonald, and “Softly as I Leave You”

Congratulations to all concerned. A really brilliant occasion.!! When’s the next one.?

Parker Wilkinson.

The opening concert of the new musical season in St. Patrick’s Church, Patterdale, was given on the eve of the Patronal Festival by Dalston MVC, who entertained the audience, for an hour or so, with a selection of songs and solos, followed by refreshments.

The full choir, the largest to sing in St. Patrick’s in recent years, opened with a group of four songs – It’s a Grand Night for Singing, Gwahoddiad, Calm is the sea and Give me that old time religion – with great contrasts in volume between the full bodied louder passages and the gentler quiet sections. Their intonation was consistently accurate and words clear, even for those who, like me, were seated at the back of the audience.

‘Close Shave’, the American-style Barber’s Shop Quartet, popped up to sing three classic numbers – Yes Sir, that’s my baby, Carolina Moon and My Evaline – with great style, appropriate panama hats, humour and precision.

The next four songs performed by the whole choir – Stout hearted men, Lily of the valley, The Rose and Rhythm of Life – formed some wonderful contrasts, with plenty of appropriately expressive and entertaining singing from right across the choir.

Michael Deakin, the conductor turned soloist, sang two of Vaughan Williams’ Mystical Songs, Love bade me welcome and Come my way, with great expressiveness and beauty.

Finally, the choir sang I’m Gonna Walk, Water of Tyne, Morte Christe and Speed Your Journey to the great enjoyment and appreciation of the audience. Throughout the concert, Lorraine Gash played the piano accompaniments with great sensitivity and skill and the balance between the piano and vocal items throughout the concert was perfect.

Mike Town

If ever there was a concert which was designed to give praise, as in the Latin title of this programme, it had to be this one. Praise also must also be offered back to the choir. I have been to the DMVC Christmas Concerts for a few years now and I have never seen such a polished performance as this year. It was the contrast in the music too which held our attention throughout and the clarity of the voices adapting well to each genre.

It sounds an incongruous choice when I tell you that we had everything from Mozart to the Beach Boys, from G and S to Elvis and from Charles Aznavour to John Rutter!!There were some rarities too and two of my favourites were the mediaeval carol, Gaude Te, sung with such precision and Te Laudamus, made famous by the King's singers which was sung with a vocal intensity in respect of the rhythms.

It was also good this year to see so many of the choir involved in solos and this was particularly the case in "Ride the Chariot" and the Mozart, "Chorus of the Priests", both executed with panache and in the latter piece paying such respect to the original German text too. Well done to all.

The concert was prompted by too exciting musical intervals played by Caldew School pupils, Heather Cartwright with her acoustic guitar in an interesting and varied choice and Will Nixon who entertained us with Grieg and jazz adaptations on the piano and part of Mozart's Second Flute Concerto on the flute. It was lovely to see such expertise and right on our doorstep!

I was pleased that praise was given to Lorraine Gash who accompanied with great skill. So all in all, I think that talented musical director Michael Deakin must have been very pleased with this show, and judging from the comments that I overheard, so were the audience!

Helen Banks

The 18th of June at Holme Cultram Abbey saw a beautiful summers’ evening enhanced by the return after a two year absence of Dalston Male Voice choir, with the Gala Wind Trio and pianist Oliver Wicker.

The concert commenced with a popular old favourite, “It’s Now or Never”. This was a good choice as an opener as it allowed the clear harmonic lines of the male voices to be appreciated with their rich, sonorous tones. This was followed by Stephen Fosters, (of” Swanee River” and” Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair” fame) “Ring, Ring the Banjo” and an extract from “The Magic Flute” by Mozart. The rich and confident harmonies and soloist from the choir showed that the valleys of Wales are easily rivalled by the plains of the Solway.

We were then introduced to pianist Oliver Wicker who changed the mood with two Preludes by Debussy. This was a dazzling, competent performance, with a wide range of harmonies and dynamics contrasting with sparkling melodies in a true impressionist style, which transported the imagination to foreign parts.

The Gala Trio, consisting of flute/piccolo, clarinet and oboe performed three movements from Christopher Ball’s “Four Dances”. Here was a performance that begged the question, why do we not here more works by Christopher Ball? The three movements were very different in style and the confident performing and crisp ensemble playing really brought to the fore the humour of much of the composition. There was exemplary handling of the challenging range of rhythmic diversity and the final movement, “Square Dance” was enhanced with the added brightness of the piccolo.

The first half was concluded by the choir performing four pieces. “Ride the Chariot”, a spiritual with again a solo from a member of the choir and “Shenandoah” which were both sung unaccompanied. These were confident performances, subtly directed by musical director Michael Deakin who has transformed the choir in to a group to rival the best. Then a highlight of the night, the sensitive playing of accompanist Lorraine Gash allowed the real talents of the choir to shine with beautiful, long and languid phrasing in “The Rose”, best known from the film of the same name. No concert of male voices would be complete without Gilbert and Sullivan and “With Cat-like tread” the first half was brought to a close.

The second half kicked off again with the choir. With four pieces the “Stenka Razin” allowed us to enjoy yet another soloist from the choir and in “Love could I only tell thee” we could relish how much the choir has developed with ranges that really challenged the voices but was performed with real skill and confidence.

The Gala Trio returned, this time with Oliver, to perform “Caprice sur des airs danois et russes” by Camille Saint-Saens. This masterful performance with subtle interplay between the instruments and passing of melodic lines showed a high level of communication between the players.

The concert drew to a conclusion with the choir giving us four more pieces. “Where could I go but to the Lord” and “Water of Tyne” being followed with a humorous arrangement of the traditional American song “Old McDonald had a farm” which had the audience in stitches. The final piece was “Speed your Journey” from Verdi’s ‘Nabucco’, enthusiastic performing giving us a confident finale.

After the applause died down we were treated to an encore of “Softly I will leave you”, sung with passion which left the audience wanting more.

Dalston Male Voice Choir entertained a warm and large audience at St. Michael Church, Dalston for their annual Christmas Concert.

The first half celebrated their autumn terms concert theme of the World in Union and gathered songs from countries had participated in the Rugby World Cup. The first item and victim was England in robust, crisp and cleverly articulated performance of the ‘Song of the Jolly Rodger.’ From here a lilting and heart felt performance of the Canadian folk song ‘She’s like a swallow’ and ‘Speed your journey.’ Following this, a wrapped and spine tingling performance of the Sunset Poem (words from Under Milk-wood by Dylan Thomas) was performed unaccompanied with such concentration that you could hear a pin drop after the final hummed ending. To conclude the first half we were treated at selection of songs from New Zealand (winners of the World Cup) which including a fearsome Haka, Pokarekare, Hine e Hine and concluded with the hymn Jesus who loves. The middle two songs were performed with smoothness of tone and the balanced singing highlighting swapping of the tune between voices showed superb awareness and musicality and topped off with a lovely solo by conductor Michael Deakin.

The choir continues to support young talented teenage musicians and for this concert former Carlisle Cathedral Head Chorister Emily Milburn dazzled and lulled us with her beautiful sing and tone. The beautiful ‘Where e’er you walk’ by Handel, Dido’s lament by Purcell and a personal favourite ‘Little Road to Bethlehem’ were performed with such beauty, understanding and visually such ease.

The second half brought on the seasonal items. It was lovely to hear the full version of Meredith Willson’s ‘It’s beginning to look like Christmas’ including the rarely heard Pine Cones section and then in counterpoint with the two tunes was beautifully balanced again. Performances of ‘When of Child is Born, Winter Wonderland and Infant Holy (sung unaccompanied with lovely tuning) were over far too quickly. A growing performance of Do you hear what I hear showed exceptional use of dynamics. The choir treated us to Carol commissioned for the top male vocal groups called the King Singers called Te Laudamus and focuses on the story of Joseph. Again the choir showed its brilliant range of singing from smooth to staccato in the ‘Joseph knocked at every door’ to heart felt beautiful unaccompanied singing when Jesus was born.

Again a big thank you to Lorraine Gash for her excellent piano playing, David Wood for informative announcing, home-made refreshments from the helpers of St. Michael’s and Michael Deakin for keeping them all in order.

Jennifer Sowerby.

I found myself wondering what on earth I was doing going out on, what was probably, the worst night of the year. It was very wet, very windy and flood warnings were in place across most of the county. Dalston Male Voice Choir were not deterred by the weather so why should I be. They opened their concert in fine style, making it very clear that Its a grand night for singing a piece written by Rogers and Hammerstine for the 1945 film “State Fair”. This was a well-chosen piece for the choir with good bass resonance and bright light touches by the tenors, providing a wonderfully balanced tone that pushed all thoughts of the bad weather into the background. I am old enough , just , to remember those clever wordsmiths “Flanders and Swann” and the choir did justice to one of their best known songs The Gas man cometh. This and other humorous songs, such as When the Love comes Trickalin’ Down and The Song of the Jolly Roger were well placed in the programme and expertly delivered.

The choir demonstrated its versatility with a cleverly varied programme designed to bring their skill and musicianship to the fore. They segwayed between each number with consummate ease tackling songs like the powerful Russian Stenka Rasin only to follow this with Sunset Poem from Dylan Thomas’s Under Milk Wood. The contrast was very effective. Throw in an evocative medley of Maori songs and others from Wales and Canada we were left in no doubt as to their capabilities.

Conductor Michael Deakin has certainly stamped his mark on the way the choir work together as this was a very polished performance. Michael also provided a solo spot featuring songs from Roger Quilter , Rabbie Burns and Mike Head. It was for me an introduction to Mike Heads work and Michael Deakin produced a very expressive performance of Limehouse Reach taken from Six Sea Songs. His composure and clear diction really sold the song, producing one of the highlights of the evening. Another highlight came from “Close Shave” a Barbershop Quartet made up by four members of the choir. Barbershop is not the easiest of quartet singing as it is quite stylised, depending on very close harmony, phrasing and diction. Close shave did not disappoint with their lively arrangements of Shine on me, On the Railroad and Kentucky Babe.

A gem for me, on the night, was the effortless accompaniment from a very skilful Lorraine Gash. Her expertise shone throughout the night, never obtrusive but always supportive, what an asset she is.

This was an excellent musical evening, it is a pity that there are not more of them, which the audience thoroughly enjoyed.

Keith Beattie

This was indeed a concert to remember. I have seen the Dalston Male Voice Choir in performance several times during the past few years but this concert, to celebrate their Thirtieth Anniversary was truly special. There were several fine and very neat touches to mark the occasion. Firstly, former musical director and Honorary President, Hilary Hodgson made a welcome return to conduct one of the pieces, “The Rose”. Secondly, the glittering solo performances of Sarah McAllister, who had been the choir’s first soloist enhanced the evening most appropriately. The concert concluded by a warm, appreciative and extremely impressive speech from the Chairman Ray Fearon and of course there was the presentation of the 30th Anniversary cake by kind permission of the Dalston Bakery.

Engaging as the research and the stage managing of the evening was, it was the music which really made the evening. We were treated to a wide range of material and this symmetrical programme had pairs of various genres. Two spirituals were sung with fervour in Gwyn Arch’s “When The Love Comes Tricklin’ Down” and a well-driven “Where Could I go To But The Lord” in the second half. Two musicals were represented in Les Miserable and a brilliant rendition of “Stout Hearted men” from “New Moon” and two operas featured in the ever popular “Nessun Dorma” by Puccini and Verdi’s chorus of the Hebrew slaves, which concluded the concert. Most impressive of all to me were the two Welsh hymns, “Gwahoddiad” and “Tydi a Roddaist” sung with great aplomb actually in Welsh. There was an African Trilogy and a World War One Trilogy and all in all this was one of the most polished concerts I have seen for a long time.

A great feature of the Dalston Male Voice Choir is that one can always hear every word as clear as crystal and this performance was no exception to the rule. Music Director Michael Deakin produced a first class concert and was on top form himself when singing with the accomplished Sarah McAllister and the excellent accompaniment of Lorraine Gash at the piano added a touch of perfection to the evening. May the next thirty years prove as successful as this evening was. I am sure that there were many in the audience that night who would echo that sentiment.

Donald Ashbury

The Dalston Male Voice Choir made a recent return visit to Wigton Road Methodist Church and were welcomed by the minister, Rev. David Firth. Under the leadership of their musical director Michael Deakin they presented a well balanced programme of music ranging from Rogers and Hammerstein to Verdi. They were sympathetically accompanied on the piano by Lorraine Gash and David Wood gave some interesting introductions to the groups of songs. During the interval everyone enjoyed a delicious buffet supper provided by the ladies of the church.

Is there anywhere a music lover who does not thrill to the beautiful harmonies of a good male voice choir? The Wigton Road audience was not disappointed and showed their appreciation of high quality singing with quiet listening and well deserved enthusiastic applause throughout the evening.

An expectant mood was created with the opening piece "It's a grand night for singing" and the evening flowed musically from then onwards. Of course "All in the April Evening" by Hugh S. Robertson was a "must" and obviously a favourite of the listeners. Michael Deakin's arrangement of "I dreamed a dream" from Les Miserables was most moving. The choir showed its versatility singing two pieces in Welsh and the powerful "African Trilogy" arranged by Gwyn Arch.

It is always a particular pleasure to hear a good young voice and guest soloist Rob Henderson charmed with his sweet tenor singing and entertained with his classical jazz on the clarinet. He is only 17 years old but a successful career in music must surely beckon.

The final piece of the evening's programme was "Speed your journey" from Nabucco by Verdi and was just what was needed to send us, serene and content, on our way home.

Isobel Robson

A large, appreciative audience helped to bring the best out of Dalston Male Voice choir in an evening of song recently at Kirkoswald Methodist Church. The 27 strong choir was conducted by Michael Deakin, who has been their Musical Director since Hilary Hodgson retired in 2011, and it was clear from their performance that they respond well to the enthusiasm and expertise of his leadership.

The varied programme began with ‘It's a Grand Night for Singing’ from’ State Fair’ by Rogers and Hammerstein followed by ‘ The Ash Grove’, a Welsh air which exhibited the clever music arranging skills of the MD, to suit his choir. Both pieces were sung with precision and a good balance of sound between the parts.

The choir was accompanied by talented pianist Lorraine Gash, who has been with them many years and it is evident during this time that a great rapport has developed between herself and the choir . The announcer Michael Williams also played a special part enhancing the evening with entertaining links between the various pieces of music.

The ever popular ‘Yesterday’ by Lennon and McCartney was beautifully articulated and sung with tenderness and feeling; as was ‘The Rose’ by Amanda McBroom .The choir’s ability to sing in various languages was ably portrayed in ‘Tydi A Roddaist’ with accents equal to any good Welsh choir and the syncopation and rhythms in the ‘African Trilogy’ proved a light, foot tapping addition to the programme.

The choir have a policy of encouraging young musical talent and this concert included two slots from Andrew Caton on guitar, a 6th former at QEGS Penrith. His style, a mix of classical and rhythm guitar with a modern twist is very individual and inspired by the great Australian guitar genius, Tommy Emmanuel. He began with the well known tune ‘Mombasa’, which was amazing . His proficient vocal talent was also showcased in ‘ I’ve got a Friend in you’ as were his mature writing and composition skills in two other pieces. He was truly inspirational.

In the second half the choir pieces ranged from a light hearted rendition of ‘Old McDonald had a Farm’, which made the audience chuckle to the more serious Speed your Journey (Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves) by Verdi which continued to show the choir’s versatility. They sang together, listening to each other to blend into that wonderful rich sound that you expect from a fine male voice choir.

Our thanks go to the choir for a superb evening of music and entertainment. The most apparent thing about this group of men is the clearly evident delight they get from singing, sending their audiences home uplifted and with a song in their hearts.

Jacquie Kidd

The Dalston Male Voice Choir, presented a delightful and imaginative programme of vocal music at Aspatria Masonic Hall, which ranged from folk songs to Grand opera. From the very outset, it was clear we had a gifted, committed choir, who for nearly two hours thrilled their appreciative audience with their musicianship, enthusiasm and love of their repertoire.

The musical director, Michael Deakin, has a wonderful knack of getting the very best out of his choir. It was a pleasure, to see his unobtrusive and sensitive conducting. The choir has a very gifted accompanist in Lorraine Gash, who effortlessly interpreted the most technically demanding piano passages. The different items in the programme were introduced humorously and concisely by David Wood. David quickly established a rapport with his audience and made a most effective compare.

Throughout the evening, Michael’s hard work was reflected in the expression, tunefulness and crystal clear diction of his singers. Particularly impressive was where the choir coped with some difficult harmonies and modulations. Their conductor evidently pays great attention to detail. Perhaps in this feast of musical delectation, the highlights for me were the Morte Christe by E. Jones, Verdi’s Chorus ‘Speed Your Journey’ from his opera, Nabucco and the topical and unashamed nostalgia of a medley of evergreen First World War songs.

It was nice to see two young guest artists, Eleanor Hatch and Samantha Jones, both A level students at Cockermouth School. The audience was delighted with their confident and polished performances. Their pure singing voices, unaided by microphones were an absolute joy to hear. What particularly thrilled everyone was when they sang two duets, where their natural sensitivity and tonal clarity shone through. The rapturous, spontaneous applause they received, spoke for itself. Quite unexpectedly and to the admiration of the largely masonic audience was a splendid arrangement of some masonic festive board songs.

Thank you Michael, what a multi-talented and versatile musician you are ! All in all this was a fantastic musical evening.

N P

It is often forgotten that the character of the environment in which a choir sings affects how it feels within it, and how it is heard. Dalston Male Voice Choir is aware of this, as it sings in a great variety of venues and it has little time in which to acquaint itself with each place before performing. How wonderful for them last week, to give their concert in Holme Cultrum Abbey, the first to be held there since its restoration after the disastrous fire 8 years ago. There was adequate width, large altar steps on which to stand, and an inspiring large uncluttered space where sound was not absorbed or distorted.

Leah McGeorge from Nelson Thomlinson School, was the solo artist invited by the choir, and she sang Long ago and far away, and Fear no more the heat of the Sun, and four others, all from memory. She displayed great confidence and sang beautifully, and a quieter piano accompaniment for some pieces helped us to appreciate this more clearly.

The choir itself was its usual happy self, energetically directed by Michael Deakin and accompanied by Lorraine Gash, with a varied repertoire well delivered. I would have liked to have seen a bit more animation, particularly when singing Old Macdonald had a Farm, and with a little less attention paid to their music folders generally.

All of this was followed by a delicious and varied buffet with wine. A very memorable and enjoyable evening, which raised £1400 towards the completion of the restoration.

Ian Turnbull

The Lunchtime Live performance at Carlisle Cathedral hosted the poplar Dalston Male Voice Choir, directed by Michael Deakin and accompanied by Lorraine Gash. The programme of eight songs included the well known, Non Nobis Domine, and the beautiful Morte Christe.

In lighter contrast 'Last of the summer wine' was instantly recognisable by its tune, but with words echoing memories of youthful days of summer voices when the wine was strong and free, it struck a chord with many of the audience I'm sure. In recognition of the First World War centenary, a medley of songs from that era left the audience silenced by its poignancy as the final words 'Til the boys come home' hung softly in the air.

The soloist was Michael Deakin, who started his musical career as a chorister and musical scholar at Carlisle Cathedral. He has the most beautiful voice and sang two pieces from 'A Shropshire Lad' by George Butterworth, The Lads in Their Hundreds, and Is My Team Ploughing; a delight to the ear.

The choir's clear diction was evident, especially on the softer notes, with an excellent tenor/bass balance; and its performance throughout was complemented with superb accompaniment by Lorraine Gash. The announcer Michael Williams was a delight, introducing items with light charm and humour. There is an obvious camaraderie between the choir, its Musical Director and accompanist. An open invitation is extended to any potential new member to sit in at a choir practice in Dalston Methodist Church each Sunday at 7.15pm.

The choir has a policy of encouraging young talent, so it was not unusual during the warming up session before the concert, to find young people from North Allerdale Development Trust (NADT), Wigton quietly recording and filming the activity as part of a World Film Collective course for local unemployed people aged 16-25; based on learning film making skills, directing, producing and editing etc.
www.youtube.com/user/unconventionalmedia1

Liz Armstrong

The Dalston Male Voice Choir paid their 6th visit in 13 years to Plumpton Church on Saturday May 10th and an appreciative audience of about 60 people much enjoyed their programme of 'Songs from the New World and the Old'. The 22 strong choir was conducted by Michael Deakin, who has been their Musical Director since Hilary Hodgson retired in 2011, and it was clear from their performance that they respond well to the energy, enthusiasm and expertise of his leadership.

The programme ranged widely over popular, sacred and light classical pieces, from 'All The Things You Are' to 'Cwm Rhondda' and 'Nessun Dorma'. There was much chuckling over the animal noises in 'Old McDonald Had a Farm' and the Welsh accents in 'Tydi A Roddaist' had to be heard to be believed! Lennon and McCartney's 'Yesterday' was beautifully articulated and sung with real feeling, but the theological highlight of the evening was 'The Gardener's Lament' by one of the choir members, Bernard Stout, receiving its world premiere and reminding us that God certainly did create everything – including greenfly, frost, slugs, mice, pigeons, nettles and weeds!

The Choir is well known for encouraging young local talent, and the soloist this evening was Hannah Scotson, who gave of her best in numbers that included 'There's a Place for Us' and 'Linden Lea'. The accompanist for all the choral pieces was Lorraine Gash, whose delicate expertise is always so much appreciated, and the witty compere for the evening was Robin Woodworth.

The great thing about this group of men is their sheer delight in singing, their rapport with their audiences, and their bubbling joviality. Their musical ability is self-evident and there is an excellent tenor/bass balance in their voice. Those present left with a song in their hearts and hoping for another helping in the not too distant future.

K.E.W.

'It's now or never!' It was tempting to smile and think 'well, yes...' about the opening number at the concert in aid of church funds, sung by 30 men among whom was a generous share of bald or grey heads. However, we were very soon reminded that, under the direction of Michael Deakin, they can rival any Welsh choir in the hymn Calon Lan or swing along vigorously in Give Me That Old Time Religion with its jaunty accompaniment, so ably played by accompanist Lorraine Gash.

The unaccompanied All in the April evening felt less secure but At the Lamb's High Feast We Sing, a unison setting by former Carlisle Cathedral organist Dr F Wadely, was very pleasing. The second half of the evening brought changes of mood with the tongue-twisting Rhythm of Life and an hilarious Old McDonald, while Yesterday proved the choir's romantic side.

Joe Davies, Penrith sixth former and pupil of cellist Emma Farrend at the Junior Royal Northern College of Music, was guest artiste, accompanied on piano by Sarah Massey. He showed a high level of musicianship in two Vivaldi sonatas, demonstrating confident tone and flowing lines as well as rhythmic, accurate runs and decorations. Frank Bridge's Spring Song was full of expressive phrasing.

Juliet Rowcroft

Advent opened in Dalston with its Male Voice Choir’s Christmas concert, Gloria. Directed by Michael Deakin and accompanied by Lorraine Gash, the choir presented, in addition to Vivaldi’s Gloria, a programme of many old favourites together with unfamiliar works one of which, written by Carlisle writer Howard Laws, was a cheerful melodic carol The Babe of Bethlehem.

The choir’s clear diction was evident particularly in this new song and also in a moving rendering of the unaccompanied spiritual The Lily of the Valley. In the 16th century Coventry Carol the grief caused by Herod’s shocking slaughter of the innocents was convincingly expressed, reminding us that Advent is not all about tinsel and sleigh bells. In contrast was a gentle traditional Gaelic song Taladh Chriosta (Christ’s Lullaby) with cradle-rocking accompaniment, refreshing harmonies and alleluias in canon.

Guest artiste was 17 year old Trinity School student Yasemin Zaremba who demonstrated an impressive repertoire for one so young, ranging from two contrasting and beautifully played Debussy Arabesques, and the haunting Chopin Nocturne in C sharp minor, to the jaunty Gershwin number Nice Work if You Can Get It.

A jolly sing-along rendering of Winter Wonderland brought the concert to an end. This excellent choir is always keen to recruit new members.

Juliet Rowcroft

The Dalston Male Voice Choir under the direction of their recently appointed conductor Michael Deakin gave a concert in aid of Chrysalis in Wigton Methodist Church. The audience was large and clearly expecting great things. It was not disappointed. As always, the choir offered a wide range of musical styles, from the dignified formality of the 'Cantique de Jean Racine' to the wistfulness of 'Yesterday' and 'The Slow Train', or the traditional American folk songs 'L'il Liza' and 'I'm Gonna Walk' which were crisp and light as a vol-au-vent.

Perhaps the choir was just a touch too gentlemanly for Romberg's 'Drinking Song', a little well-bred for 'Ilkley Moor', but by the time the singers had got to 'There Is Nothing Like A Dame' they had cast all restraint aside and were as full-throated and uninhibited as any American doughboys. This choir is renowned for its beautiful pianissimo, here shown to great effect in such pieces as the lyrical 'Lily of the Valley' and 'Unchained Melody'. The effect of the second bass line, so soft, yet perfectly firm, is magical; and if the top tenors could have done with a little more weight in the opening numbers, they soon 'sang themselves in' and produced a soaring tenderness in the chorus from Verdi's 'Nabucco'.

The guest soloists were from Nelson Thomlinson School. Sarah Wolstencroft (standing in at the last minute) played a sonata for two flutes by Telemen with the schools Head of Music Rebecca Raven, and a haunting Cantilena by Poulenc. Miss Raven also accompanied Sophie Rheam who played a concerto by Vivaldi, followed with Saraband by J S Bark on recorder with dexterity and spirit. The talent and dedication of these young people were warmly appreciated by the audience.

The choir demonstrated its versatility not only by the choice of music but by singing in French (Jean Racine) and Welsh (Tydi a Roddaist) as well as English (should I add American and Yorkshire as well). A sense of humour is never far from the surface (yes, we did notice that 'Curthwaite for Thursby isn't in the original Slow Train).

The accompanist, Lorraine Gash, has been with the choir a long time, and so a remarkable rapport has developed between choir and pianist. In 'The Rose' voices and instrument seemed almost to be breathing as one. It was intensely moving.

Michael Williams, master of the throwaway wit, introduced the items, and the conductor Michael Deakin held everything together with good humour and charm. In the interval tea, coffee and delicious tray-bakes were served, and there was a stall offering goods from the Chrysalis shop. Gilda Wells a Trustee of Chrysalis was present and expressed her thanks for a delightful evening.

Daryll Hall.

The Dalston Male Voice Choir, gave a concert "On the Wings of Song" to an appreciative audience at Christ Church in Penrith on 15th June 2013. The choir, under the leadership of Michael Deakin gave a varied and entertaining performance delivered with enthusiasm and ability.

The programme included some well known tunes, such as Irving Berlin's "Let's Face the Music and Dance" and Puccini's Nessun Dorma and some less well known tunes such as Gwahoddiad was originally the English-language hymn "I hear thy welcome voice", the words and tune of which were written in 1872 by the American Methodist minister and hymn writer Lewis Hartsough The theme of on wings of song included ‘Yellow Bird’, ‘You Raise Me Up’, and ‘A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square.

The choir have a policy of highlighting and encouraging young talent and this evening they included a programme from Hannah Scotson. Hannah is 19 years of age and is currently studying for a BA in Performing Arts from the University of Cumbria. She gave an accomplished performance of six songs, including ‘I Don't Know How to Love Him’ and the crowd pleasing ‘The Hills are Alive with the Sound of Music" from the musical of the same name.

The choir was ably accompanied by Lorraine Gash and announcer Michael Williams helped the evening along with entertaining and amusing links to introduce and link the various pieces of music.

Our thanks go to the choir for a superb evening of music and entertainment. We enjoyed the highly accomplished performance and were cheered by a choir who clearly enjoyed signing and performing.

We will look forward to hopefully a return performance sometime very soon.

Dalston Male Voice Choir was once more in fine voice when they presented a well-balanced, festive programme at St. Michael’s Church, Dalston on Sunday 16th December. In the capable hands of musical director Michael Deakin and ably accompanied, as ever, by Lorraine Gash, the choir produced a full, resonant sound.

Their versatility was displayed through songs that were both accompanied and unaccompanied, ranging from mediaeval to modern. Diction was excellent throughout and, despite one or two less secure moments, the choir responded well to the conductor’s ‘baton’, showing pleasing attention to phrasing and articulation.

In particular, the unaccompanied arrangement of ‘Lily of the Valley’ was very polished; pitch was always well focused and there were some delightful dynamic contrasts with the soft, sustained passages, for which this choir is renowned, in evidence.

The clearly punctuated words of Mary’s Boy Child were very effective and the choir’s rich, harmonious blend of voices here was enhanced in the choruses by the organ accompaniment provided by choir-member David Spratt.

Overall, the balance of parts was splendid. In the Coventry Carol and Infant Holy, however, the tenor descant tended to overshadow the bass melody line somewhat.

Dalston Handbell Ringers were guest performers. They played a good variety of pieces, maintaining a steady pulse throughout and paying attention to dynamic effects.

A short medley of carols provided an uplifting conclusion to a wonderful afternoon and sent the audience home wreathed in smiles.

Avril Tisdall

The Orthodox Church will tell you that there’s no finer instrument than the human voice, which is why you don’t find musical instruments in their Churches. Dalston Male Voice Choir certainly proved this point to their audience for Saturdays concert held at Aspatria Masonic Hall.

This quality choir delighted everyone with a diverse range of songs. For me it proved a nostalgic night bringing many musical memories back to life. A stirring rendition of Sigmund Romberg’s Drinking Song From the Student Prince opened their programme. The choir made full use of the scope for harmony in the traditional Lily of the Valley which they followed with an uplifting arrangement, by F.C.Wadley, of our very own John Peel. I remember being in awe of Dr Wadley when he organised training days for the Royal School of Church Music at Carlisle Cathedral.

Next , one of my favourite composers Gabriel Faure. His uncluttered musical style produced works of exquisite beauty. Cantique de Jean Racine is one such piece becoming a favourite amongst singers the world over. It requires firm control from Conductor and singers alike. Its intimacy reaches out to touch the soul and the choir did just that, wonderful. The Choirs new conductor, Michael Deakin is only ten months in post but he has already made his mark. He has an excellent rapport with his team and his enthusiasm and musical skills shone through. Lorraine Gash proved to be a wonderful asset to the Choir. Accompanists are often overlooked but a good Accompanist is worth their weight in gold and Lorraine is good.

Four members of the choir formed the close harmony group “Close Shave” whose relaxed style and quick humour belies their skill and hard work in producing two very fine musical sets. They made it look so easy.

Folk songs to Opera just flowed from this talented Choir. Hugh Robertson’s All in an April Evening being another personal favourite and the Choir did not disappoint , I found myself wanting to join in.

Nothing like a Dame followed by the Welsh Calon Lan then The Rose and Joe Green’s (Verdi’s Nabucco) Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves continued to show the Choirs versatility and wide musical ability. They sang together, listening to each other to blend into that wonderful rich sound that you expect from a fine male voice choir.

They cared about diction, finishing together and balancing their sound to communicate with their audience, which they did throughout the whole performance. I wonder if this fine Choir could bring their talents to a younger audience, working in schools, developing further their support of younger musicians. Now there is a thought.

Keith Beattie

A concert presented by Carlisle St Stephen's Silver Band and their guests the Dalston Male Voice Choir was held in Morton Manor on Saturday 20th October 2012.

The evening began with the Band, conducted by David Dye, playing The Royal Air Force March Past, followed by various other pieces, one of which was The Carnival of Venice beautifully played as a duet by David Dye and a young member of the Band, Victoria Haworth.

The Dalston Male Voice Choir conducted by Michael Deakin and accompanied by Lorraine Gash, began their part of the programme with the 'Drinking Song' from the Student Prince followed by 'All in an April Evening' and a lovely compilation of songs from Cole Porter with 'I'm Gonna Walk' before being joined by the Band to give a spirited performance of 'The Rhythm of Life'.

After the interval the Band played two more pieces including Opus One, a big band sound. The Choir returned to sing 'Autumn Leaves' and 'The Rose'. This was followed by an arrangement by F.W. Wadely of John Peel, which was beautifully sung but I much prefer the traditional rousing version of the song. The Choir ended this part of the programme singing 'There Is Nothing Like A Dame' from South Pacific.

The Band and Choir joined together for a traditional Proms Finale with the audience joining in and waving their flags, to sing 'Rule Britannia' 'Jerusalem' and Elgar's 'Land of Hope and Glory'. This was thoroughly enjoyed by all who showed their appreciation with loud and prolonged applause.

A very enjoyable evening.

B.W.F.